Packers need a statement win in Week 17 vs. Vikings
By Nile McNair
In the grand scheme of things, everything is going well for the Green Bay Packers. The team has clinched their division and tracking towards the NFC’s No.1 seed… again.
Yet, it feels like the Packers need a statement win this weekend. To prove to themselves and everyone else they are the league’s best.
Despite being 12-3, Green Bay’s last two wins have been nerve wracking.
First, it was the near 14-point collapse against the Baltimore Ravens with backup QB Tyler Huntley.
Then, it was the Cleveland Browns, who without four Baker Mayfield interceptions, run the Packers off the field.
The past weeks have exposed two things about the Packers. Those being the defense is trending down and this team needs to close out games.
During the past three games Green Bay has allowed nearly 500 yards rushing. Opposing teams have rushed for 166 yards per game during this stretch.
They still have time to solve these issues
On the bright side, the Packers have two weeks to correct things. Now, these aren’t major problems, plenty of teams would love to be in the Packers’ situation.
However, these issues could prevent a championship run. A statement versus the Minnesota Vikings in Week 17 is the perfect remedy.
In doing so you achieve a couple of things. One, you avoid being swept by the Vikings this season.
Another upset loss to a divisional foe cannot happen, especially not at Lambeau during the home stretch.
In addition, a loss hurts your chances at the number one seed. As both the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys are on your heels in the standings.
To get this statement win the Packers must slow down the Vikings’ stars. It starts with Dalvin Cook, who has scored in three straight matchups with the Packers.
Then comes Justin Jefferson, who had a great performance last time these teams played. Jefferson had 169 receiving yards and two touchdowns in the Week 11 matchup.
If the defense picks up their play, then Green Bay will look like a complete team again, as the offense has been great over the past few weeks.
Stiflingly defense and explosive offense need to concur in Week 17.
If so, the Packers will get their first statement win since winning short-handed in Arizona.